The Top Places to See When Driving from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Village of Pawling, New York

Getting there is half the fun, isn't it? When you're driving from Ottawa, Ontario to Pawling, New York, you will come across some of the most striking landscapes in North America, as well as charming towns, exceptional museums, and more. This region has it all!

Whether you are road-tripping with friends, family, or as a couple, this list will help you enjoy a memorable and unforgettable journey.

The Beautiful Landscapes of the Adirondack Mountains

The Adirondack Mountains are a magnificent and natural attraction, with a rich history and many fun activities. Since these mountains are located in both New York and Ottawa, they are a perfect stopping point on your driving journey between the two cities. Begin at the Adirondack Visitors Center in Newcomb to learn about the area's wildlife and natural beauty. From there, take Route 28 through Blue Mountain Lake, stopping to hike in the surrounding forests that are home to a variety of birds, including the gray jay, which is the official bird of Canada.

The Seaway Trail

The Seaway Trail is a long-distance scenic roadway that spans for almost 500 miles. It's one of the most beautiful ways to see parts of New York and the Great Lakes region, with plenty of stops to take in the sights, scenery, and quaint towns. The Seaway Trail will lead you through quaint towns like Alexandria Bay and Sackets Harbor on your journey south to Syracuse, home to the amazing Erie Canal Museum.

The Amazing Kawartha Lakes

The Kawartha Lakes add extra magic to your road trip, and they'll make your journey even more exceptional. The best way to explore this region is to drive the Trent Severn Waterway, which offers serene views of the lakes and an outdoor playground to explore. Plan a stop in Peterborough, where you will find the famous Peterborough Lift Lock, a National Historic Site. There is also the Canadian Canoe Museum; it's an excellent destination for the canoe aficionado in all of us.

The Historic City of Kingston

Kingston, Ontario, is a historical gem that is worth a stop on any driving journey. The city is known for its architecture, old-world charm, parks, and festivals, as well as being one of the most significant trading ports in Canada. Get a taste of the city's history by taking a guided walking tour of the downtown core, where you'll discover charming sites like the Murney Tower National Historic Site, Fort Henry, historic Kingston City Hall, and Ontario's oldest farmers market.

The Beautiful Tanglewood Music Centre

If you are a music enthusiast or performing arts fan, make a stop at The Tanglewood Music Centre in Lenox, Massachusetts. The centre is home to the Boston Symphony Orchestra, which hosts a summer season celebrating classical music and jazz. Take a guided walking tour of the Tanglewood grounds and enjoy the well-manicured lawns, beautiful fountains, and stunning gardens. Or, pack a picnic and have a relaxing time on the grass while listening to world-class musicians.

Conclusion

Driving from Ottawa to Pawling creates an incredible opportunity to enjoy some of the most beautiful and diverse scenery in North America. From historic cities like Kingston and spectacular outdoor locations like the Kawartha Lakes, to serene state parks like Tanglewood and the Adirondack Mountains themselves, there's something to suit everyone's taste. With plenty of attractions to visit and so much to do, you'll forget that you're even on a long journey. So, pack your bags, fill up your tank, grab your own personal music track and drive on down to Pawling!